Bathtub access system

ABSTRACT

A system and apparatus for assisting a person during entering and exiting a bathtub and shower. In one embodiment, the method comprises a bathtub chair system having a support member having a first end coupled to the first side of the bathtub, extending across and beyond the second side of the bathtub to a base member at the second end of the support member; a seating surface moveably disposed on the support member; a low voltage electric motor disposed within the base member; and a drivetrain coupling the seating surface to the low voltage electric motor.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/345,729 filed May 18, 2010 the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Invention

This invention relates to bathing aids, specifically to apparatus for assisting a person getting into a bathtub.

2. Background of the Invention

Bathrooms present potential dangers for disabled, injured, or other mobility-impaired people. More specifically, showers and bathtubs present fall and drowning dangers, especially when entering or leaving the bathing area. Further, accessing and exiting the bathroom may be inconvenient and difficult for a person that is mobility-impaired. Remodeling or renovating existing bathrooms to improve shower or bath accessibility for a person in this condition may be prohibitively expensive. As such there is a need for a device and systems for reducing the risks of slipping, falling, and/or drowning and for improving the convenience for mobility-impaired persons. Such systems and devices would be particularly well-received if they could be used with conventional bathtubs.

BRIEF SUMMARY

A bathtub seat system is disclosed comprising a seat disposed on a support member. The support member spans the lateral dimension of a bathtub, and acts as a water resistant housing for an electric motor and drivetrain. The drivetrain comprises rotors and a chain, coupled to the seat, and configured to interact with stops positioned in the housing. Alternatively, the drivetrain comprises a rotatable linear member, for instance a threaded member.

The embodiments described herein comprise a combination of features and advantages intended to address various shortcomings associated with certain prior devices. The various characteristics described above, as well as other features, will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments, and by referring to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the invention, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a top view of an embodiment of a moveable bathtub seat in accordance with the principles described herein;

FIG. 2 is a side view of the moveable bathtub seat of FIG. 1; and

FIG. 3 is a front view of the moveable bathtub seat of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a front view of an alternate configuration of the moveable bathtub seat of FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The following discussion is directed to various embodiments of the invention. Although one or more of these embodiments may be preferred, the embodiments disclosed should not be interpreted, or otherwise used, as limiting the scope of the disclosure, including the claims. In addition, one skilled in the art will understand that the following description has broad application, and the discussion of any embodiment is meant only to be exemplary of that embodiment, and not intended to intimate that the scope of the disclosure, including the claims, is limited to that embodiment. Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not function. The drawing figures are not necessarily to scale. Certain features and components herein may be shown exaggerated in scale or in somewhat schematic form and some details of conventional elements may not be shown in interest of clarity and conciseness.

In the following discussion and in the claims, the terms “including” and “comprising” are used in an open-ended fashion, and thus should be interpreted to mean “including, but not limited to . . . .” Also, the term “couple” or “couples” is intended to mean either an indirect or direct connection. Thus, if a first device couples to a second device, that connection may be through direct engagement of the devices, or through an indirect connection, via other devices, components, and connections.

In certain embodiments, the moveable bathtub system comprises a seat or seating surface configured to move transversely across a bathtub carrying the weight of a person. The seat is pivotably disposed on a support member. The support member is coupled to one side of the bathtub and extends to a base member disposed outside the bathtub. The support member includes a drive system coupled to the seating surface. The drive system is coupled to a motor to provide motive power to the seating surface. Further, the drive system is configured to stop the movement of the seat at a predetermined position.

Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, there is shown a top view and a side view, respectively, of an embodiment of a moveable bathtub seat 100. Moveable bathtub seat system 100 comprises a support member 126 that supports a seat 124. Seat 124 provides a seating surface to support a person in the seated position. Seat 124 has a back and other supports to contain and retain a person in the seated position. Seat 124 is configured to comfortably retain a person in the seated position when they are weakened or incapable of doing so themselves. Alternatively, seat 124 may be configured to support a kneeling person, or a person partially reclined; further, seat 124 may be used as a handhold for supporting a standing person. In certain instances, seat 124 may be interchanged as a modular component to adapt the moveable bathtub seat system 100 for a person to kneel or lay upon.

Seat 124 is preferably constructed of water resistant or waterproof materials, without limitation. In addition, seat 124 is preferably resistant to soaps, surfactants, cleaning agents, mold, bacteria, and other contaminants and color removers. In instances, seat 124 is constructed to have padding or cushioning. The padding or cushioning is any with anti-microbial properties, or that is capable of being treated with anti-microbial agents. Without limitation by theory, the seat 124 is generally configured for constant exposure to a warm, humid, or wet environment, and resistant to mold, bacteria, and virus accumulation.

Seat 124 is configured to pivot about an axis as represented by path A. Seat 124 may pivot by any means known, including, but not limited to, shaft, bushings, and bearings. In instances, the pivot means is protected, sealed, and otherwise water resistant or waterproof. Seat 124 may pivot about a mechanism inside support member 126. Seat 124 further comprises a vertical adjustment, for instance an air cylinder.

In the embodiments shown, support member 126 is constructed of water resistant material. In exemplary instances, support member 126 comprises metal, plastic, or a composite. Support member 126 may be aluminum, steel, stainless steel, polyurethane, polypropylene, fiberglass, carbon fiber or combinations thereof, without limitation.

Support member 126 comprises a tub interface, support, stanchion, or tub leg 126A. Tub leg 126A comprises an interface with the tub 102, such as a pad, suction cups, or other means of attaching, clamping, or holding onto the tub side 102B. In instances, tub leg 126A contacts both substantially vertical and substantially horizontal portions of tub side 102B. Support member 126 comprises an outside/outer support, stanchion, or leg 126B. Outer leg 126A comprises a column or post having an internal volume and extending to the floor or ground of a bathroom. Outer leg 126A comprises a moveable or adjustable means for contacting the ground, for instance a foot or non-slip pad. Further, outer leg 126A comprises a vertical adjustment, such as a screw-type or piston-type adjuster. Outer leg 126A is capable of holding support member 126 approximately parallel with the ground. Outer leg 126A is configured to hold seat 124 and a person, thereupon. Support member 126 extends across bathtub 102 between tub leg 126A and leg 126B. Support member 126 provides seat 124 with a lateral path B across bathtub 102.

In the embodiments shown, support member 126 also provides a housing for a power system 130 and drive system 140 for seat 124. The power system 130 and drive system 140 are positioned within the leg 126B. Power system 130 and drive system 140 are stored in an accessible, water resistant, compartment within support member 126. Further, all connections between power system 130 and drive system 140 are water resistant or sealed from water.

Power system 130 is an electric power system. Power system 130 may comprise battery 132, household outlet 134 with a cord 136, or other electric power source for providing the drive system 140 with electric power. In certain instances, power system 130 is a battery 132. Batter 132 is reversibly connected to an outlet 134. For instance, battery 132 is coupled to outlet 134 for charging, but is disconnected during operation of power system 130.

Power system 130 comprises control pad or controller 138. Controller 138 is any device, switch, or interface, configured to control the operation of the moveable bathtub seat system 100. In instances, controller 138 comprises an on-off switch for the power system 130, to remove all electric power from moveable bathtub seat system 100. Alternatively, controller 138 is configured to initiate, terminate, alter or reverse the direction of seat 124 movement along path B. In certain instances, the controller 138 is a remote controller, operated by a care-giver for example.

Without limitation by theory, power system 130 comprises all the electric components and controls of the moveable bathtub seat system 100. The power system 130 is kept as far from the water of tub 102 as possible, such as the leg 126B. The power system 130 is configured to operate at a maximum voltage without electrocuting and injuring, or otherwise causing discomfort to a person should they be exposed to the system and the water simultaneously. As may be understood by one of skill in the art, power system 130 may comprise fuses, circuit breakers, fail-safes, safety drop-outs, and other devices to prevent the power system 130 from operating when wet or damaged. The power system 130 is configured as about 6V to about 250V power source, for instance from a battery, socket, or plug. In some instances, the power source may be less than about 12 volts to lower risk of shock and alternatively, the power source is a low amplitude power source. Without limitation by theory, the typical domestic outlet is a 110V power source, as such the power system 130 is connected to a resistor, limiter, resistor, transformer, inverter, or other device to maintain approximately a 12V or lower power supply. Alternatively, the outlet is 110V for recharging a 12V or lower battery. Further, the power supply maybe an AC (alternating current) for the purposes of recharging the battery 132, but a DC (direct current) for use in the power system 130.

Referring now to FIG. 3, in the embodiment shown the drive system 140 comprises a motor 142 positioned in leg 126B of support member 126. Motor 142 is any motor capable of converting electricity into mechanical motion. Motor 142 is powered by any power source previously discussed. In instances, motor 142 is an electromagnetic motor configured for rotation in response to a current, such as a direct current. Without limitation by theory, the motor 142 responds to a direct current, and motor 142 rotates according to the direction of the current through coils, magnets, shells, and other components.

The motor 142 is configured to move a driveline or drivetrain 146. Drivetrain 146 comprises a segmented, flexible, linear connection, for example a chain. Drivetrain 146 is coupled to seat 124. Drivetrain 146 includes a stop means 152 for contacting a stop 150. For example, a tub stop 150A stops drivetrain 146 from moving seat 124 beyond approximately the center of tub 102. The stop means 152 of drivetrain 146 contacts the stop 150 to initiate this action. Further, an exit stop 150B prevents drivetrain from moving seat 124 beyond approximately the leg 126B of support member 126. In instances, the stops 150 are connected to the power system 130 for cutting power to the motor 142 to stop seat 142 movement, without a person using the controller 138. Alternatively, stops 150 reverse the movement of seat 124. Without limitation by theory the interaction of stops 150 and stop means 152 prevent or reduce wear on the moveable bathtub seat system 100 components, by limiting the range and conditions of operation.

Drivetrain 146 is supported by rotors 144. Rotors 144 may comprise a free rotor 144A and a drive rotor 144B. Drivetrain 146 forms a closed loop or circle around free rotor 144A and drive rotor 144B. The seat 124 may be associated with either portion of the drivetrain 146 located between the rotors 144. Free rotor 144A is configured to rotate freely in response to tension within the drivetrain 146. Free rotor 144A may further be configured to maintain a certain tension on drivetrain 146. As understood by one skilled in the art, maintaining tension on a chain or similar driveline is important for optimum performance. Alternatively, a tensioner maybe associated with free rotor 144A. Drive rotor 144B is coupled to motor 142, to provide motive force to the drivetrain 146. Drive rotor 144B is configured to rotate with motor 142; alternatively, drive rotor 144B comprises a transmission or gearset to rotate proportionally to motor 142. Drive rotor 144B applies tension to the drivetrain by rotating, and the direction of the rotation determines the direction of the movement along path B.

In operation, seat 124 is positioned proximal too or over the leg 126A of support member 126. The stop means 152 is in contact with exit stop 150B. Exit stop 150B allows a person to exit or access the seat 124. A person is positioned and supported on seat 124. In certain instances, the feet of the person are allowed to touch the ground. Alternatively, the person's feet are supported by other components and supports of seat 124.

The controller 138 is activated, such that power system 130, comprising a battery 132 providing, in this embodiment, a 12 V output delivers a current to motor 142. Motor 142 rotates, applying tension to drivetrain 146 by drive rotor 144B. The drivetrain 146 rotates about the free rotor 144A. Seat 124 coupled to the drivetrain 146 is moved at a comfortable pace along path B, towards the center of the tub 102. In instances, when the seat 124 is positioned approximately over the center of the tub 102, the stop means 152 contacts the tub stop 150A. The person is free to bath, or shower as desired without leaving the seat. Alternatively, the person is free to stand in the tub 102, using seat 124 and support member 152 as a handhold, backrest, or other balancing device. In instances, the moveable bathtub seat system 100 reduces the risk of slips and falls during entering or exiting the bath or shower.

Referring now to FIG. 4, illustrating an alternate configuration of the moveable bathtub chair system 200. In embodiments the drive system 240 comprises a motor 242 positioned in leg 226B of support member 226. Motor 242 is any motor capable of converting electricity into mechanical motion. Motor 242 is powered by any 12V power source, for instance from a battery. In instances, motor 242 is an electric motor configured for rotation in response to a current, such as a direct current or alternating current. Without limitation by theory, the motor 242 responds to a current, and motor 242 rotates according to the direction of the current through coils, magnets, shells, and other components.

The motor 242 is configured to move a driveline or drivetrain 246. Drivetrain 246 comprises a linear driveline. In instances, drivetrain 246 comprises a helical structure that converts torque or rotational movement into a linear force or movement. In non-limiting examples, drivetrain may comprise a screw drive, worm drive, cams disposed on a shaft, or any other similar gear arrangement for a threaded rod. In further instances drivetrain 246 may comprise a spiral or twisted linear member. Drivetrain 246 is connected to seat 224. In instances, seat rides along drivetrain 246, alternatively, seat 224 comprises a rotatable element to reduce friction. Drivetrain 246 comprises a stop means 252 for contacting a stop 250. For example, a tub stop 250A stops drivetrain 246 from moving seat 224 beyond approximately the center of tub 202. The stop means 252 of drivetrain 246 contacts the stop 250 to initiate this action. Further, an exit stop 250B prevents drivetrain from moving seat 224 beyond approximately the leg 226B of support member 226. In instances, the stop 250 is connected to the power system 230 for cutting or interrupting power to the motor 242 to stop seat 224 movement, without a person using the controller 238. Alternatively, stops 250 reverse the movement of seat 224. Without limitation by theory the interaction of stops 250 and stop means 252 prevent or reduce wear on the moveable bathtub seat system 200 components, by limiting the range and conditions of operation as well as preventing the seat 224 from moving beyond support member 226 and risking injury to a user.

Drivetrain 246 is supported by housing 244. Housing 244 may comprise a free end 244A and a drive housing 244B. Drivetrain 246 forms a linear connection between free end 244A and drive housing 244B. The seat 224 may be associated with either portion of the drivetrain 246 located between the housings 244. Free end 244A is configured to rotate freely in response to rotation of the drivetrain 246. Free rotor 244A may further be configured to carry a bushing or bearing such that drivetrain 246 is free to rotate with reduced friction even with the load of a person or user in seat 224. Drive housing 244B is coupled to motor 242, to provide motive force to the drivetrain 246. Drive housing 244B is configured to allow drivetrain to rotate with motor 242; alternatively, drive housing 244B holds a transmission or gearset to rotate proportionally to motor 242. Without limitation by theory, the direction of the rotation of drivetrain 246 determines the direction of the movement of seat 224 along path B. Additionally, drive housing 244B may include a bearing, bushing, or seal such that water, debris, or other objects may not enter motor 242.

In operation, seat 224 is positioned proximal too or over the leg 226A of support member 226. The stop means 152 is in contact with exit stop 250B. Exit stop 250B allows a person to exit or access the seat 224. A person is positioned and supported on seat 224. In certain instances, the feet of the person are allowed to touch the ground. Alternatively, the person's feet are supported by other components and supports of seat 224.

The controller 238 is activated, such that power system 230, comprising a battery 232 or outlet 234 delivers a current to motor 242. The power system 230 is configured as about 6V to about 250V power source, for instance from a battery, socket, or plug. In some instances, the power source may be less than about 12 volts to lower risk of shock and alternatively, the power source is a low amplitude power source. Motor 242 rotates, such that seat 224 engages threads or other features for movement along path B. Seat 224 coupled to the drivetrain 246 is moved at a comfortable pace along path B, towards the center of the tub 202. In instances, when the seat 224 is positioned approximately over the center of the tub 202, the stop means 252 contacts the tub stop 250A. The person is free to bath, or shower as desired without leaving the seat. Alternatively, the person is free to stand in the tub 202, using seat 224 and support member 252 as a handhold, backrest, or other balancing device. In instances, the moveable bathtub seat 200 reduces the risk of slips and falls during entering or exiting the bath or shower.

It should be understood that the moveable bathtub seat system 100, 200 is entirely repositioned, for instance to allow an able bodied person to access the bathtub. In instances, the entire system of the moveable bathtub seat 100, 200 is relocated longitudinally along the bathtub, for example to the back of the tub. Further, the moveable bathtub seat system 100, 200 may be used as a bench or resting place for an able bodied person in the bathtub. In still other alternate configurations, moveable bathtub system seat 100, 200 may run along the length of the tub or other bathing enclosure to move a person into and out of the flow of water, or from a bathing area to an entry/exit point. 

1. A bathtub chair system comprising: a support member having a first end coupled to the first side of the bathtub, extending across and beyond the second side of the bathtub to a base member at the second end of the support member; a seating surface moveably disposed on the support member; a electric motor disposed within the base member; and a drive member coupling the seating surface to the electric motor.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the seating surface moves along the support member between the first end and the second end.
 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the support member comprises a housing extending from the first end to the second end.
 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the seating surface is pivotably disposed on the support member.
 5. The system of claim 1, wherein support member comprises a first stop positioned adjacent to the first end and a second stop positioned adjacent to the second end, within the housing.
 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the drivetrain comprises a stop member for contacting the stops.
 7. The system of claim 1, wherein the drivetrain comprises a rotational drivetrain.
 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the electric motor comprises low voltage motor operations between about 6V and about 250V
 9. The system of claim 8, further comprising a batter powering the electric motor, wherein the electric motor is a DC motor.
 10. A bathtub chair system comprising: a support member having a first end coupled to the first side of the bathtub, extending across and beyond the second side of the bathtub to a base member at the second end of the support member; a seating surface moveably disposed on the support member; an electric motor disposed within the base member; and a rotatable tension drivetrain coupling the seating surface to the electric motor.
 11. The system of claim 10, wherein support member comprises a first stop positioned adjacent to the first end and a second stop positioned adjacent to the second end, within the housing.
 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the drivetrain comprises a stop member for contacting the stops.
 13. The system of claim 10, wherein the drivetrain comprises a chain and rotor system.
 14. The system of claim 10, wherein the electric motor comprises low voltage motor operations between about 6V and about 250V.
 15. The system of claim 14, further comprising a batter powering the electric motor, wherein the electric motor is a DC motor.
 16. A bathtub chair system comprising: a support member having a first end coupled to the first side of the bathtub, extending across and beyond the second side of the bathtub to a base member at the second end of the support member; a seating surface moveably disposed on the support member; a low voltage electric motor disposed within the base member; and a rotatable threaded drivetrain coupling the seating surface to the low voltage electric motor.
 17. The system of claim 16, wherein support member comprises a first stop positioned adjacent to the first end and a second stop positioned adjacent to the second end, within the housing.
 18. The system of claim 17, wherein the drivetrain comprises a stop member for contacting the stops.
 19. The system of claim 16, wherein the rotatable threaded drivetrain comprises a mechanical system chosen from the group of screw drives, worm drives, cams and shafts, or combinations thereof.
 20. The system of claim 16, further comprising a batter powering the electric motor, wherein the electric motor is a DC motor. 